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If This Isn't Nice, What Is?

Advice to the Young : the Graduation Speeches
Jun 21, 2015vv9 rated this title 3.5 out of 5 stars
I have not really read much vonnegut. I enjoy a good essay and ran across this collection of graduation speeches which he had given over the years. First, Vonnegut does not seem to be much of a public speaker. His fiction may be great, but his speeches read pretty stiff. The best advice he gives is reflected in the title, and has the flavor of stopping to smell roses. He suggests, when things are good, that you pause to enjoy and think "If this isn't nice, what is?" I think this is a great suggestion, and actually find myself doing just that. Vonnegut speaks, often, about surrounding yourself with people to get through life. He feels as if we have lost the clans and villages that served as extended family. It's a short read, with tidbits to ponder.